New Online Nursing Degree Will Cut Study Costs and Help Solve Shortage in Southern Oregon

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. — As the ever-increasing shortage of qualified nursing staff continues to hinder Oregon healthcare services, particularly in rural areas, the Umpqua Community College (UCC) and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) are offering students the opportunity to obtain a nursing degree online.

The collaboration eliminates relocation and associated cost obstacles, allowing students to live locally while studying for an advanced nursing degree online.

Students will be able to obtain a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in psychiatric-mental health and, upon qualification, gain clinical experience locally in Douglas County.

The program will help counter the shortage of trained nursing practitioners in primary and psychiatric care. Students will enjoy on-campus advanced technology personalized training.

According to a 2023 study, Oregon produces the third-lowest number of healthcare graduates per capita nationwide. Of the 6,700 students who applied to a nursing program in Oregon in 2020, only 1,500 were accepted, representing 23% of the prospective candidates.